Today we’d like to introduce you to Shyhiem Blatcher.
Hi Shyhiem, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I began my journey in shelter and human services work a little over a year ago at Listening House of St. Paul, but my path into this work started earlier. Before joining Listening House, I worked at a federal halfway house supporting individuals in residential reentry. In that role, I worked closely with people navigating substance use challenges and trying to rebuild their lives after incarceration. That experience gave me a strong foundation and a deeper understanding of the barriers many people face when they’re working to get back on their feet.
At the same time, my work became deeply personal. My family and I were going through our own challenges as we tried to support a close family member—my sister—who was struggling with substance use and living on the streets. For over two years, we had no contact with her. Then one day, I saw her walking down the street just a block away from my home in Minneapolis. That moment changed everything for me.
From that point on, my perspective shifted. I wasn’t just doing this work professionally—I was living it personally. I understood, in a very real way, what it feels like to want change for someone, to want to help them, and to feel how overwhelming and sometimes impossible that can be. I also came to understand that many people don’t always see their own worth, even when others around them do.
That experience continues to drive me. It’s what motivates me to show up every day and support others who are facing similar challenges. Today, as the Program Manager at Listening House of St. Paul, I carry both my professional experience and my personal story into the work. It shapes how I lead, how I connect with guests, and how I support my team—always with the goal of creating a space where people feel seen, valued, and supported on their journey forward.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. Even though I’m in the position I’m in today, I still carry personal and family struggles with me—because at the end of the day, I’m human too.
There have been times in my life where I’ve experienced homelessness myself and had to figure things out not just for me, but for my daughter. That experience stays with you. It’s exhausting, and it can feel like you’re constantly jumping through hoops just to find stability—navigating systems, searching for resources, and trying to hold everything together at the same time.
At the same time, I was also dealing with the emotional weight of my sister’s situation—watching someone I love struggle with substance use and living on the streets, not knowing where she was for over two years. When I finally saw her again just a block from my home, it was a powerful and overwhelming moment. It reinforced how close these realities can be, and how easily life can shift.
My sister also has three children, who my parents have since adopted. Supporting them has become part of my responsibility as well, and that adds another layer to everything—balancing family, stepping up where needed, and making sure they have the support and stability they deserve.
Balancing all of that while working in the field—first in residential reentry and now at Listening House—hasn’t always been easy. There are days where the work is heavy, and the personal side of it doesn’t just turn off. But those challenges have also shaped how I show up. I understand the systems not just professionally, but personally. I understand the frustration, the fear, and the resilience it takes to keep going.
Those struggles are part of what drives me. They’ve given me a deeper sense of empathy and purpose in this work, and they continue to push me to support others who are navigating similar paths—because I know firsthand how hard it can be, and how important it is to have someone who sees you and believes you’re worth the effort.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
In my role as Program Manager at Listening House of St. Paul, I oversee daily operations and support both staff and guests in creating a safe, welcoming, and structured environment. My work centers around crisis response, relationship-building, and ensuring that our space meets people where they are—whether they’re coming in for basic needs, stability, or just a place to be seen and heard. I also focus on team leadership, helping guide staff through complex situations while maintaining strong boundaries and consistency in our approach.
I would say I specialize in navigating high-pressure environments and working directly with individuals who are experiencing homelessness, substance use challenges, and mental health barriers. This work requires a balance of empathy, structure, and quick decision-making, and that’s something I’ve developed both professionally and through my personal experiences.
What sets me apart is my ability to stay composed in all types of situations. No matter what’s happening in front of me, I’m able to remain neutral, process what’s going on, and respond in a way that is thoughtful and grounded. In this line of work, situations can escalate quickly, and being able to stay calm not only helps me make better decisions, but also helps de-escalate and support the people around me—both guests and staff.
I’m also known for being consistent and fair. I take pride in creating an environment where expectations are clear, people feel respected, and there’s accountability on all sides. My lived experiences allow me to connect with people in a real way, while still upholding the structure needed to keep everyone safe.
What I’m most proud of is being able to turn my personal experiences into something that helps others. Everything I’ve gone through—whether it’s supporting my family, experiencing instability myself, or working in this field—has shaped how I show up today. Being in a position where I can lead, support my team, and make a direct impact in people’s lives is something I don’t take lightly.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Right now, I wouldn’t say I’ve had a formal mentor, but it’s something I’m actively interested in and open to. I’d definitely value having someone I can learn from—especially someone who has experience in this field and can offer guidance as I continue to grow in my role.
What has worked well for me so far is building genuine relationships through the work itself. Whether it’s connecting with other providers, community partners, or colleagues, I’ve found that showing up consistently, being reliable, and staying open to learning goes a long way. A lot of networking in this field happens naturally through collaboration and shared experiences.
My advice would be to stay open and intentional—don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and learn from people around you. You don’t always have to label it as “mentorship” right away. Sometimes it starts with simple conversations, observing how others lead, and building trust over time.
For me, that’s something I’m continuing to work on—being more intentional about seeking out those connections and learning opportunities as I grow in this field.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.listeninghouse.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/listeninghouse_st.paul/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Listening-House-of-St-Paul/61576279408135/#
